Ethics must be at heart of Artificial Intelligence technology, says Lords report

As the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in a host of industries, not least the financial services sector, gains traction, the House of Lords has called for the United Kingdom to lead the way in the ethical development and deployment of the technology.

Ethics need to be put at the centre of the development of the emerging technology, according to the House of Lords Artificial Intelligence Committee.

Ready, Willing and Able?' report found that the UK's position, along with the wider adoption of AI, could deliver a major boost to its economy for years to come.

It said that such education would "mitigate the negative effects" on jobs which are possible as AI develops.

The Lords' report said the United Kingdom has the potential to be a leader in developing AI and called on the government to support businesses in the field. Re-training will become a lifelong necessity.

"The UK contains leading AI companies, a dynamic academic research culture, and a vigorous start-up ecosystem as well as a host of legal, ethical, financial and linguistic strengths".

Third is the idea that AI should not be used to diminish the rights or privacy of individuals, families or communities; we guess someone ought to mention that to Facebook and its work on AI.

The committee has also called for the government to draw up a national policy framework to ensure the coordination and successful delivery of AI policy in the United Kingdom, and that it should use targeted procurement to provide a boost to AI development and deployment.

"An ethical approach ensures the public trusts this technology and sees the benefits of using it".

The report said transparency in the technology was needed, and the AI Council should establish a voluntary mechanism to inform consumers when AI is being used to make significant or sensitive decisions. "It will also prepare them to challenge its misuse", said Committee chairman Lord Clement-Jones. Our recommendations for a growth fund for SMEs and changes to the immigration system will help to do this. ' Notes that the United Kingdom can spearhead AI development providing it embraces an ethical approach. "With our recommendations, it will be".